Alyssa Hirkaler 
In the heart of downtown Nutley, a one-of-a-kind gift shop and maker space called Pretty Handy has been steadily carving out a niche in the community since opening in 2019. Owned by husband and wife team Rob Noone and Joyce Lin, the space at 175 Franklin Avenue, Suite 202, is more than just a store- it’s a testament to the power of creativity and community. Read on to learn more about Pretty Handy in Nutley.
About Pretty Handy
The journey to open Pretty Handy started with a desire to change. Owners Rob Noone and Joyce Lin came from the corporate world, where they felt like the connection with customers and the quality of the products were being overlooked. “We wanted a business that prioritized those things,” said Joyce, leading them to open Pretty Handy in 2019.
A significant portion of Pretty Handy comes from its deep connection with the local community. Many of the shop’s most popular items are Nutley-themed, with ideas often sparking from conversations with their customers. Among the best-selling items are things that are “slightly controversial”, Rob said, such as a garbage can ornament inspired by Nutley’s trash receptacles. This quirky and hyper-local product perfectly encapsulates the shop’s playful spirit and the town’s character. Other Nutley-centric products include keychains and magnets featuring local landmarks, such as the “Exit 151” keychain.
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A Community Makerspace
Beyond the retail space, the team hosts a variety of workshops and birthday parties for all ages. In the summer, they also host a weeklong kids’ camp.
Children’s birthday parties are especially popular, with themes that can be customized for any interest. Recent parties have been themed for Stranger Things, Minecraft, and Ghostbusters.
Adults are also invited to unleash their creativity through a series of hands-on classes. These workshops often involve learning to use power tools to create personalized items such as your own “little library”. Other popular adult classes include candle making and other craft-based products.
Future Plans for Pretty Nutley
The path for Pretty Handy hasn’t been without its challenges. The pandemic forced Rob and Joyce to adapt and rethink their business model. Their advice for anyone looking to start a small business is to learn to “be flexible and go with the flow.” This ability to pivot and learn from unforeseen circumstances has been a crucial part of their success.
See More: 21 Niche Activities to Try in Hoboken + Jersey City
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